Since first dates are all about first impressions, full-on makeup can be a bit intimidating. Opt for a look that’s pretty and clean and leave that crazy blue eyeliner, out-there nail art and technicolour hair extensions for another time – girls get it but unfortunately guys don’t. The aim should be a look that’s simple yet sexy, like you were born with those long flirty lashes and perfectly flushed cheeks. Consider the time and setting of your date and match your makeup accordingly. Breakfast? Picnic? A tipple after dark? From casual to dressed-up, these tips will run the gamut.

LAY THE FOUNDATION

If your skin is imperfection-free, opt for a BB cream or tinted moisturiser. For more coverage, use a light foundation such as Estée Lauder Double Wear Light Stay-In-Place Makeup SPF 10, $50, which feels lightweight and keeps you flawless for 15 hours. And if you have dry skin, steer clear of powder and opt for a foundation with hydrating properties.

BRONZE AMBITION

Accentuate your cheekbones, brow bone and above your cupid's bow using a matte bronzer such as CLINIQUE True Bronze Pressed Powder Bronzer, $48. Don’t just dust it all over your face. The trick is to apply it in a ‘C’ formation, starting at the temples and sweeping it along the sides of the face and under the cheeks for a natural glow.

CHEEK FACTOR

A pop of cheek colour will give you a flirty, fresh-faced look. Make sure your blush is in the same colour family as your lipstick and choose powders over creams as they have better staying power. We recommend a matte option such as Bobbi Brown Blush, $44.

A sheer pink gloss or nude lipstick will bring attention to your kissers! Clinique Long Last Glosswear SPF 15, $35, is a great barely-there option, but if there’s a chance of a mass smooching session, opt for a lip stain instead!

LASH OUT

Get your eyelashes ready for some flirty fluttering with Napoleon Perdis Magnif-Eyes Black Mascara, $38. A great tip to make them look fuller is to dust with powder before applying your mascara using a zig-zag motion – two coats should do the trick. Or to up the drama, add a few false lashes to the outer corners only.

HEAVEN SCENT

Go easy on the fragrance. Your perfume shouldn’t linger long after you’ve left the room. A crisp, citrusy scent such as DKNY’s Be Delicious, $79.95, works well for day, while spicy and exotic scents should be reserved for night.